Issued: June 16, 2004

FORMER BLUGOLD HEADING FOR THAILAND AND EAST ASIA

EAU CLAIRE - Former UW-Eau Claire women's basketball player Kristi Channing currently has her sights set on a different goal.

In 2002-03, the All-American helped lead the Blugold to a 32-2 record and a Division III Final Four appearance while averaging 15.7 points per game.

This summer Channing's action on the court will take on an eternal perspective. Hailing from Fall Creek, WI, Channing will travel to Thailand and East Asia June 20 - July 8 with Athletes in Action (AIA), the sports ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ.

While there Channing and her teammates will direct basketball clinics for youth and children and also play competitive games against national teams.

Through these experiences, Channing will have the opportunity to use her love for basketball to share her Christian faith with players, coaches, and fans alike. Athletes in Action regularly uses the platform of sport to share this faith.

Says Channing, "I'm very excited to see what great things God has planned and the amazing opportunities we will have to share His love with others. I'm also excited to experience the culture and see how they play basketball in East Asia."

Headquartered in Xenia, Ohio, AIA has been sending women's teams of this nature for almost three decades, often playing women's national teams on their summer tours.

Like all AIA and Campus Crusade for Christ ministry staff and interns, mission trip participants must raise their own financial support through family, friends, local businesses, and churches with a heart to help.

Athletes in Action Roster